Two arrested in auto shop drug bust

On May 17, California authorities announced that two men were arrested for allegedly operating a drug-trafficking ring in Apple Valley. The defendants are reportedly linked to the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico.

Media reports state that officers from multiple law enforcement agencies raided an auto repair shop in Ontario on May 15. During the raid, they discovered 500 pounds of methamphetamine, 40 grams of fentanyl, 11 firearms and around $38,000 in cash. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated to be around $1.25 million. The raid was the culmination of a two-month investigation into suspected drug activity at the property.

Two men, ages 55 and 21, were taken into custody. They are suspected of being connected to an American drug ring with links to the Mexico-based Sinaloa Cartel. The ring is thought to be involved in drug-trafficking operations across the U.S. while the auto shop location is suspected of distributing drugs throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Both defendants have been charged with possession of methamphetamine with the intent to sell or transport for sale purposes and possession of methamphetamine while in possession of a firearm. The investigation was conducted by members of the Alhambra Police Department, West Covina Police Department, California Highway Patrol and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Defendants charged with state or federal drug crimes could face severe consequences if they are convicted. Typical sentences include years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. However, a criminal defense attorney could represent a defendant throughout the legal process and do everything possible to get the charges dropped. If that isn’t possible, legal counsel could attempt to arrange a plea deal that reduces the charges and penalties.